Cosmetic Surgery Glossary

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Collagen: The major structural proteins in the skin that give it strength and resilience.

Copper Peptide: A common ingredient found in skin care products, copper peptide is used to promote the production of collagen and elastin in the skin.

Contracture scar: A type of scar in which a permanent tightening of skin occurs, often in response to a burn. This type of scar may affect the underlying muscles and tendons, limiting mobility and possibly damaging the nerves.

Crows Feet: The fine lines found around the eyes. They are often caused by sun exposure. Smoking can also contribute to their formation.

Debriding: The process of removing dead or devitalized tissue before reconstructive or cosmetic surgery.

Depilation: The removal of hair.

Dermabrasion: A surgical procedure in which a patient's upper layers of skin, scarred from acne, pox, or other causes, is frozen and then removed using a high-powered rotating brush.

Dermalogen: A product derived from human donor tissue that is used in lip augmentation to produce a look of fuller lips.

Dermatologist: A doctor who specializes in the treatment and diagnosis of skin and skin-related problems.

Dermis: The middle layer of the skin, the dermis is a complex combination of blood vessels, hair follicles, and sebaceous (oil) glands. Here, you'll find collagen and elastin. The dermis is also where wrinkles occur.

Deviated septum: A condition in which the wall inside the nose that divides it into two nostrils – called the septum -- is not located in the middle of the nose where it should be. The condition is commonly treatable with surgery.

Eczema: A skin condition characterized by itchy, irritated, inflamed skin. Eczema comes in many forms and can be triggered by a variety of factors, including allergies, environmental factors, or family history. The raised, inflamed skin can appear anywhere on your body, including the face, legs, arms, or neck.

Elastin: A protein found with collagen in the dermis that is responsible for giving structure to the skin and organs.